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Design Thought Through

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Design can look a certain way, it can have a particular style, be the product of a certain way of thinking. But before anything else, it has to work. So you ask yourself how you achieve that. Get it right and the design follows.

At BowdenEdgar, the requirement comes first. We think about design in its entirety, analysing the product or service in depth. We get to know the client, what they want for their business, how they see themselves.

We do the same with the target audience. Design is human-centred, and we’re communicating with people. So we figure out the best way to talk to them.

It’s a case of thinking everything through. At BowdenEdgar, we do that.

With every project, we start from scratch. No two approaches are the same because no two clients are the same.

Arriving at the best possible design, the correct design, means leaving aside any preconceived notions. Instead we ask questions, we reason and we think.

Creativity springs from the way we work. Because the broader the thinking, the more accomplished the solution. At the end of it are clear, meticulously-crafted results, ones that best serve the end-users’ needs.

It’s a rigorous process, but nothing less than the task deserves.

I've worked a fair bit with this team over the last few years in different capacities. Absolutely brilliant team, punching well above their weight both creatively and commercially.

Justin Quirk
Brand Creative (editorial specialist), ACD, author, host and journalist

Congratulations on the design of the Gdynia Bridge. It’s a terrific legacy that makes a real difference to how the city feels, both residents and visitors.

Adrian Vinken OBE DL
Chief Executive, Theatre Royal Plymouth

Thank you to the talented James Edgar who looked after this book’s design from cover to cover. This wouldn’t be the book it is without all his amazing work. Here’s to the next one!

Kassia St Clair
Author

I am indebted to James Edgar for his design and art direction. His inspired vision has led to a book that is both enticing and beautiful.

Gordon Ramsay

I think what you are doing (with Plymouth Design Forum) is brilliant.

Marina Willer
Partner, Pentagram

Partnering with BowdenEdgar transformed our business. They combined creativity, professionalism and a clear vision to deliver a stunning, user-friendly website that boosted traffic, engagement and conversions. Clients praise its seamless navigation and modern design. Their attention to detail and responsiveness exceeded expectations, making our website a key growth tool. Highly recommended.

Sam Tozer
Director

The Make Waves design for Gdynia bridge is really amazing, you must be so proud. One of the best things I have seen in ages. I know how hard it is to make these things happen. Really well done!

David Draffan MBE
Service Director, Plymouth City Council

Illuminate is now a signature event for Plymouth and a key date in the city’s events calendar. Plymouth has really embraced it and it’s proven to be a perfect avenue through which young talent, including students from the University and Plymouth College of Art, can showcase their work to large audiences.

Chris Bennewith
University of Plymouth

I worked with BowdenEdgar on my new website. James and his team surpass their competitors in service quality. Their knowledge and experience across digital, print and design are fantastic. The work was delivered promptly, with great design options and fantastic communication during the whole process. I highly recommend working with BowdenEdgar.

Paul Hosking
Artist

Growing on the back of previous years’ festivals, Illuminate has become a real highlight in Plymouth’s annual events calendar. It’s such a special event and we’re thrilled that this year it will act as the opening moment of the Mayflower 400 commemorations, not just in Plymouth but across the whole country.

Adrian Vinken OBE
Destination Plymouth

The branding that BowdenEdgar has created with us is fantastic, and the impact that it's made on our business to have bright, vibrant, standout cans and a coherent modern brand has been brilliant. Thank you.

Jon Clargo
Direcrtor, Roam Brewing Company

James and Josh consistently bring a personable yet highly professional approach to everything they do. Their work is not only top-tier in quality but also visually striking, delivering a polished, 'slick' finish that truly stands out.

Nikki Williams
Director, Stayinphase

BowdenEdgar has transformed our brand identity and website. First, James & Josh really studied and absorbed what we stand for in the marketplace and understood our guiding principles and attitude towards our clients. The result is a compelling blend of professional and artistic style.

Jon Williams
Director, Stayinphase

Last night, I spoke at Plymouth Design Forum – PDF. A cracking event. Hosted by the super generous Darren Foley and James Edgar. What strikes me the most about these evenings is how much effort and passion it takes to run them, build a community and bring people together. It has been far from easy for our industry in recent years, which makes them all the more important.

Simon Dixon
DixonBaxi

I’m always amazed and humbled by the effort that goes into events like PDF. I find it hard to get through the day/week never mind then organising an event. Huge amount of respect. PDF is one of the best for sure… hell of a drive down/up but worth it!

Michael Place
Studio.Build

Highly organised and professional outfit that delivered a detailed, top-end brand and design package for our inaugural Royal William Yard Festival. This was supplemented with real time assistance and guidance throughout the build up and delivery of our event. I cannot recommend BowdenEdgar highly enough.


Festival Director & Event Manager

I can’t thank James enough for all his hard work on these books. They are fab!

Nicky Ross
Editor, Hodder & Stoughton

After a difficult time though the lock downs we have emerged stronger and have regrouped as a team. The rebrand by BowdenEdgar has given us direction and sense of pride.

Matt Glover
Director, Orchid Print

I am so thrilled with the work our amazing creative team has created. In my six years in this job role this is the most rewarding campaign I have been involved in.

Amanda Lee
Marketing Manager, Plymouth City Council

The 'Geddon Plymouth Shop Local' campaign has had a genuine positive impact on our business. Thank you.

Sam and Katie
Owners, Vessel Beer Shop

The 'Geddon Plymouth Shop Local' campaign has galvanised the local community and shop owners and we have had something really positive to get behind. We have new customers who never knew we were here and recognise my face from the campaign!

Hayley Summers
Owner, Twist Game Cafe

Woooow! Congratulations for ‘śmiały’ project!!

Paulina Kisiel
Creative Director, Centrum Design Gdynia

The team at BowdenEdgar are fantastic to work with—always super responsive, full of creativity, totally authentic and passionate about delivering the best results.

Emma Hewitt
Skills Lead, Building Plymouth